Every year, HHS comes together for one of the most meaningful and exciting traditions of the school year, Pink Out. Pink Out is a full day of events that brings students, staff, and the community together to support breast cancer awareness and honor those who have been affected by cancer. From the pep rally in the morning to the final buzzer at the game that night, Pink Out is a day our school never forget.
Pink Out first began when Emily Lind, then a junior at Herrin High School, lost her mother, a beloved fourth-grade teacher at the elementary school, to breast cancer. Determined to turn her grief into something powerful and positive, Lind used her role in Student Government to organize an event that would raise awareness and show support for individuals and families affected by cancer. What started as a heartfelt tribute has since grown into a cherished annual tradition that honors survivors, remembers loved ones, and brings the community together in hope and solidarity.
The day began with a school-wide pep rally. The gym was packed with students wearing pink shirts, pink face paint, and pink accessories. There were class competitions, games, and performances that got everyone excited for the big game. The cheerleaders performed a special Pink Out cheer that they create each year just for this event. It always gets the whole crowd involved. The basketball game that evening was one of the major events. The Herrin Tigers basketball team wore special pink jerseys to show their support for the cause. Seeing the team in pink uniforms made the night feel even more meaningful.
The most emotional moment of the night was the Rose Walk. During this special ceremony, names are announced as individuals walk across the court in honor or in remembrance of loved ones who have battled cancer. The survivors who walked this year were Nathaniel Wilson, Dr. Jeffrey Johnson, Robyn Davis, Bob Harrison, Holly Harrison, Mary Jarvis, Cyle Lamoureux, Leah Lerner, Joshua Huff, Joy Daugherty, Duque Faulkenberry, and Donnie Ryan. Braden Davis added, “Getting to walk in the Rose Walk for the second year in a row was a truly unforgettable and impactful experience. Especially getting to walk out with my mom, it is so emotional for me to see all of the others who are cancer survivors.”
One of the largest contributors to the event is the Student Government. The organization spends weeks planning decorations, organizing activities, and making sure everything runs smoothly. Ms. Bonifield, one of the Student Government sponsors, shared that the planning was months in the making. She said that the organization“started talking about Pink Out activities during the November meeting, but most of the planning occurs in December and January.”
Additionally, the event was sponsored by Jeff, owner of Sound Decisions. His support helps cover the cost of shirts, decorations, and roses for the Rose Walk. “Growing up, a lot of people helped me when I had cancer, so I decided to give the favor back by sponsoring this event,” Jeff explained.
The significance of Pink Out goes beyond just raising money. It spreads cancer awareness and reminds everyone that our community stands together during difficult times. Pink Out is not just a tradition at Herrin High School; it is a day that represents unity, strength, and Tiger Pride.
